“Is that a famous actor right there?” In Santa Monica, the answer is probably “Yes!” This is where stars and celebrities live, work and relax. Take a stroll down a sunny SoCal beach and you might see Matthew McConaughey surfing in the waves. Take a trip to the market. You might see Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner shopping for fruits with their kids. The city of Santa Monica is like a life-size Hollywood movie. Read our tips on where to find your favorite celebrities.
How to get to Santa Monica?
Santa Monica is located on the Pacific coast west of Los Angeles, 16 miles from the center. The city is bordered:
- By Pacific Palisades and Brentwood on the north
- By West Los Angeles on the east
- By Venice on the south
The main access roads are Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica Fwy, or Santa Monica Blvd. If you don’t have a car, the city has a public transportation service, the Big Blue Bus. A subway line, Expo Line, also allows you to come from Downtown Los Angeles.
Movies shot in Santa Monica
Some locations are more popular among Hollywood filmmakers than others. The emblematic places of Santa Monica are:`
- The Pier
- The Third Promenade
- The Santa Monica Place
- Rae’s Restaurant
We could see the Pier of Santa Monica in a multitude of films. It’s impossible to name them all, but here are some examples, trying to vary the pleasures:
- Iron Man (2008)
- Forrest Gump (1994)
- Moon (2009)
- Heat (1995)
- Terminator 2
- Judgment Day (1991)
- True Romance (1993)
- Bowfinger King of Hollywood (1999)
The Ivy At The Shore
Ever wonder why The Ivy At The Shore has such high hedges? It’s not to hide the breathtaking views of beautiful Santa Monica Beach. The reason this exclusive beachfront bar is built like this is to keep celebrities out of the public eye and away from the paparazzi.
To catch a celebrity at The Ivy At The Shore, make yourself comfortable at the bamboo bar. Order your mohito, and keep an eye out. You’re sure to run into Sean Penn, Danny DeVito, Kate Hudson or Reese Witherspoon. They’re regulars at the place.
Bungalow At The Fairmont Miramar Hotel
The Bungalow was created by luxury hospitality pioneer Brent Bolthouse. It’s the new benchmark for social aka super romantic living in Santa Monica. This newly-created space is a unique and exclusive opportunity to:
- Enjoy spectacular ocean views
- Relax in lush gardens, expansive outdoor decks and secluded patios
- Soak up the warmth of rustic interiors
Celebrities regularly visit this place. They enjoy the incredible service, fresh drinks and delicious gourmet food. This place has always attracted celebrities. Marilyn Monroe and Jean Simmons were regular customers.
Hot 8 Yoga
Doing yoga is great. But what could be cooler than doing yoga alongside Jessica Alba, Jennifer Aniston, or Pink? The ultra-modern room is equipped with a temperature-controlled hot room. It also has a café that serves health-conscious drinks. This relaxation and detox center offers over 100 classes per week.
